Puigdemont Considers Ceuta and Melilla as Colonies of Morocco
The former president of Catalonia, Carles Puigdemont, has stirred significant debate with his recent comments regarding the Spanish territories of Ceuta and Melilla. In an extensive interview with the British newspaper The Times, Puigdemont controversially referred to these two cities as "colonies or cities within Morocco." He elaborated on this viewpoint by suggesting that from a Moroccan perspective, these territories represent a significant grievance.
Despite his unyielding stance on their colonial status, Puigdemont acknowledged the strong Spanish identity of the people residing in Ceuta. He emphasized that their position would gain legitimacy if they were to hold a referendum on self-determination—a prospect he believes Spain would vehemently oppose due to fears of similar demands arising from Catalonia.
Puigdemont, who has been living in exile, expressed unwavering commitment to his decisions made during the unilateral independence referendum, even if it meant being away from his homeland for an extended period. He remarked, "I did not know how long I would be in exile, but I was ready to spend my entire life there." This sentiment resonates as he reflects on the personal sacrifices he has made, such as missing significant family moments and grappling with the deaths of loved ones.
Reflections on Returning to Spain
When discussing the possibility of returning to Spain, Puigdemont acknowledged the changes in Catalonia since his departure nine years ago. His desire to reconnect with the current realities of Catalonia reflects a deep sense of longing for his homeland. He mentioned reading Robert Graves' memoir, "Goodbye to All That," which resonated with his feelings of estrangement from a place he once called home.
Should he return, Puigdemont expressed a desire to immerse himself in contemporary Catalonia, stating, "That is my intention: to breathe it, touch it, listen to it, and see it for myself." As he navigates the shifting tides of public support for Catalan independence, he remains cautiously optimistic, suggesting that internal polling indicates a favorable outcome for independence should a referendum be agreed upon with the Spanish state.
As reported by elfarodeceuta.es.
